Ferulic acid [hydroxycinnamic] in cosmetology – what is it, properties, what does it give for facial skin

What is ferulic acid in cosmetology?

Ferulic (hydroxycinnamic) acid is a powerful plant-derived antioxidant that helps skin resist oxidative stress, the negative effects of free radicals. Oxidative stress can be considered one of the main factors in skin aging. It can provoke the appearance of hyperpigmentation and fine premature wrinkles, a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, loss of skin tone and elasticity. Ferulic acid also helps to slow down the production of melanin in the skin, which helps to curb the appearance of new age spots and fight existing ones.

Where is ferulic acid found?

Ferulic acid is an important component for most plants – it is it that helps plants protect their cells from pathogens, and also maintains the strength of cell membranes. Ferulic acid can be found in wheat, rice, spinach, sugar beets, pineapple, and other plant sources.

How does ferulic acid work on the skin?

In cosmetology, ferulic acid is especially valued for its antioxidant properties, which help fight the visible signs of skin aging. Here is what ferulic acid does as an active ingredient in cosmetics:

  • corrects visible signs of skin aging, including age spots and fine lines;
  • participates in stimulating the production of its own collagen and elastin (helps restore skin tone and elasticity);
  • maintains the protective properties of the skin due to antioxidant activity, has a photoprotective effect due to the ability to absorb UV radiation;
  • helps to stabilize vitamins C and E (if they are part of a cosmetic product), thereby maintaining and enhancing their action.

The inclusion of ferulic acid in cosmetics makes it possible to create highly effective antioxidant serums that help visually rejuvenate the skin, maintain its tone, elasticity and protective properties.

How is ferulic acid used in cosmetology?

As mentioned above, indications for the use of products with ferulic acid include visible signs of aging: hyperpigmentation, fine lines, flabbiness and lethargy of the skin.

Being a powerful antioxidant, ferulic acid can be included in various meso-cocktails (drugs for injections) and acid peels designed for deep skin cleansing. There is even a so-called ferul peeling – it can be recommended for owners of oily and problem skin prone to pigmentation.

Such peeling helps to improve the appearance and texture of the skin: it refreshes the tone, narrows the pores, and reduces the manifestations of hyperpigmentation. However, please note that peelings (including acid peels) may have their own contraindications – in particular, it is not recommended to perform them during pregnancy and lactation.

And, of course, due to its pronounced antioxidant effect, ferulic acid is often included in home care products that are actively used in cosmetology to combat the signs of aging, as well as to support the skin after cosmetic procedures and prolong the effect of them.

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